Should We Make Car Inspections Mandatory Every Year?
Where I live (North Carolina), it is mandatory to get your car inspected every year, but that’s not the case everywhere. There are arguments for and against this practice. Of course, it could improve the safety of vehicles on the road. On the other hand, it can be costly and not something everyone can afford. So, should yearly inspections be a thing? Here are some things to think about when it comes to this debate.
1. Safety First: The Case for Annual Inspections
As mentioned above, those who support the idea of having yearly inspections often cite safety as their number one priority. If a car is deemed unsafe to drive, it could put everyone on the road at risk. Having an annual check can help ensure that everything is up to par with today’s safety standards. People believe this could reduce the number of deadly accidents, but there is no proof to back that up.
2. Not All States Agree on the Policy
I’ve lived in several states throughout my life. North Carolina requires annual state inspections, but South Carolina does not require an inspection at all. There are 12 other states that don’t require yearly inspections either. This can become confusing if you’re someone who travels in a car often, or if you’re someone like me who has moved a lot. When it comes to point number one (safety first), why isn’t this universally enforced if it impacts safety so much?
3. Critics Say It’s Just Another Money Grab
On the flip side, many critics argue that yearly car inspections are more about revenue than safety. Inspection stations, often tied to repair shops, may push unnecessary fixes. Plus, the cost adds up, especially for lower-income drivers who rely on older vehicles. There’s also the hassle of scheduling the appointment, passing the test, and potentially paying for repairs you didn’t anticipate. For many, it feels like another burden in an already expensive world of car ownership.
4. Modern Cars May Not Need It as Often
Cars today are smarter and safer than they were even a decade ago. Most newer vehicles have built-in sensors that alert you to low tire pressure, worn brake pads, or engine problems. Because of these technological advancements, some experts believe yearly car inspections are outdated. They argue inspections should be based on a car’s age or mileage rather than a one-size-fits-all schedule. After all, a 2024 electric SUV may not need the same oversight as a 2002 gas guzzler.
5. Could a Middle Ground Be the Real Solution?
Rather than making yearly car inspections mandatory across the board, a tiered system could make more sense. For example, newer vehicles could be exempt for the first five years, while older cars get annual checks. States could also offer waivers for drivers with a history of clean inspections. This approach would reduce the burden on drivers while still maintaining a level of road safety. Finding balance might be the smartest way to move forward.
It’s Not Just About Cars—It’s About Trust
At the end of the day, inspections will likely always be a state issue, but the debate will continue. Some see these annual inspections as just another money grab by the government. Others believe it helps protect the safety of everyone on the road. As cars continue to change, it’s likely our policies around them will change too.
Do you think yearly car inspections should be required in every state, or are they just a waste of time and money? Drop your opinion in the comments and let the debate begin.
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.